Parenting UP! Caregiving adventures with comedian J Smiles

Happy National Family Caregivers Month!
 
That's right - in today's episode, we celebrate family caregivers and give tips on better supporting us! Whether it's helping out with everyday tasks, or reading articles that you think about sending us, before you forward our way - I just wanted to share some tips and tools you can use as the friend of a caregiver, or as a caregiver yourself.

This month, at the least, make sure to tell a caregiver how much you appreciate them. They will thank you!

Host: @jsmilescomedy
Producer: @MiaHallTV
Editor: @annelise9152  

#NationalFamilyCaregivingMonth
#caregivingjourney 
#caregiversupport 
#caregivingtips 
#comedypodcast 
#dating 
#DementiaAwareness
#AlzheimersCare
#CaregiverSupport
#HumorInCaregiving
#EndAlz

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

In this episode, J Smiles talks about Zetty's life before she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Zetty, or better known to her friends as 'T.Y.' was passionate about voting and instilled in J a great sense of responsibility for exercising her civil rights and responsibilities.

From being mentored by Dr. Martin Luther King himself, to meeting her future husband while debating about politics, Zetty was all in when it came to making sure that she was fighting for social justice and for what was right. Though appearing demure, Zetty did not take just anything from candidates who wanted her support. Listen to the episode for more and make sure that like Zetty, you vote - your life depends on it!

Host: @jsmilescomedy
Producer: @MiaHallTV
Editor: @annelise9152  

#presidentialelection 
#votingmatters
#civicengagement 
#alzheimerscaregiver 
#CaregivingJourney
#DementiaAwareness
#AlzheimersCare
#CaregiverSupport
#HumorInCaregiving
#EndAlz

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Join us as we chat with the multi-talented Rodney Perry, who combines the art of comedy with the heartfelt caregiving journey. Rodney opens up about his personal comedy experiences and providing care for his family, from following in the footsteps of his idol Eddie Murphy to sharing the spotlight with him in "Coming to America 2." Through the lens of humor, we explore the impact caregivers have and uncover how family caregivers are the unsung heroes of our healthcare system. Perry also talks about his experience as a stroke survivor, and his journey to recovery, thanking those who cared for him along the way.

Tune in for a blend of humor, heart, and inspiration, and discover how the grace and laughter found in caregiving can inspire us all.

For more information on today's guest, visit RodneyPerry.com.

#RodneyPerry 
#ComingToAmerica2
#strokesurvivor
#standupcomedy
#CaregivingJourney
#DementiaAwareness
#AlzheimersCare
#CaregiverSupport
#HumorInCaregiving
#EndAlz

Host: J Smiles
Producer: Mia Hall
Editor: Annelise Udoye

This episode was shot at Cr8ive Souls Studios. 

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

In this episode, we sit down with fan-favorite, comedian Kelly Kellz. Known for her side-splitting stand-up and hilarious videos online, Kelly isn't just funny—she’s real. Kelly opens up about her life beyond the laughs, sharing her love for her family, maternal influences, the ups and downs of having the gift of comedy, and how transparency heals.   

J Smiles dives deep with Kelly as she talks about her journey helping her grandmother care for one of her great-grandmothers, both 'spunky' women who lived into their 90s, passing recently. Kelly also shares her raw experiences as a mom, balancing comedy, caregiving, and motherhood. Discover her heartwarming and hilarious stories about both of her great-grandmothers, how she’s earned the title of "#GrandmaWhisperer," and practical tips for anyone navigating the challenges of caregiving.

Tune in for candid conversations, expert caregiver advice, and hilarious anecdotes that only Kelly Kellz and J Smiles can deliver. If you love comedy, caregiving stories, and authentic, no-filter conversations, this episode is for you!

Visit Kellykellz.com for more on today's guest!

#CaregivingJourney
#sandwichgeneration
#FamilyCaregiver
#BlackFamilyStories 
#CaregivingTips
#RealTalk
#UnfilteredConversations  
#PodcastEpisode
#BlackExcellence
#EndAlz

Host: J Smiles
Producer: Mia Hall
Editor: AnneliseTV

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Welcome to our new series - Comedians Care! First up we have multi-talented comedienne Cocoa Brown!

Ever wondered how humor can become a lifeline when facing life's toughest challenges? Cocoa Brown shares her personal journey of balancing comedy and caregiving. Cocoa's parents unfortunately faced devastating health issues, including early onset dementia, diabetes, and cancer, nonetheless, she was able to find ways to take care of them through their last days.

This episode delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the emotional toll of caregiving. Cocoa talks about the heart-wrenching yet beautiful moments spent with her parents, including difficult decisions about their living arrangements and the pressures of managing two households. Through her reflections, Cocoa offers wisdom on maintaining relationships, managing financial stress, and the honor of fulfilling a loved one's final wishes.

Cocoa's journey is not just about caregiving but also about maintaining her flourishing career in comedy. Don't miss this powerful and uplifting conversation with the J Smiles and Cocoa Brown.

Visit https://cocoabrown4life.com/ for updates on Cocoa's happenings. 

Host: J Smiles Comedy
Producer: Mia Hall
Editor: Annelise Udoye 

#ComediansCare

#CocoaBrown

#ComedyAndCaregiving

#CaregivingJourney

#FamilyDynamics

#HumorInHardTimes

#EmotionalWellness

#CaregivingChallenges

#DementiaAwareness

#DiabetesSupport

#ComedyAndHealing

#CaregivingStories

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Join us as we speak with the incomparable Dr. Tina, a member of the sandwich generation. In this episode, we dive into the science and emotional toll of caregiving, highlighting the struggles and the small victories that make it all worthwhile.

From managing medications and doctor appointments to maintaining our mental health, the responsibilities of caregiving are immense. Dr. Tina offers invaluable insights into the need for systemic change and community support, shedding light on the often-overlooked heroes of the healthcare system. We also discuss the importance of quality life experiences, advocating for a person-centered approach that prioritizes emotional well-being.

One standout feature of this episode is our deep dive into CareMobi, an innovative app developed by Dr. Tina to streamline caregiving tasks.

Visit https://nursing.nyu.edu/w/caremobi for more information and you can follow Enlightened Caregiver on Instagram. 

Host: @Jsmilescomedy
Producer: @miahalltv
Editor: @Annelisetv 

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Can you imagine juggling a caregiving routine for a parent with Alzheimer's while preparing for a last-minute TV comedy appearance? That's the reality I faced as I navigated a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and heartfelt moments. With help from my incredible teams, I managed to balance podcast production and the meticulous caregiving of my mom. Through all the craziness, I learned the vital importance of resilience, adaptability, and finding humor in the most challenging situations.

From the chaotic preparations to the serene moments of connecting with fellow comedians, this time was nothing short of an emotional rollercoaster. I share the behind-the-scenes antics that went into making the TV show appearance happen—think frantic late-night adjustments and last-minute logistical hurdles. But the real magic happened in the comedy green room, where I reconnected with the amazing Kelly Kellz and the legendary Cocoa Brown. I also met Palmer Williams for the first time.

Lastly, we explore the importance of trust, integrity, and authenticity in building relationships, both online and offline.

Visit fox5atlanta.com/shows/portia for the Season Finale of the Portia Show featuring J Smiles!

Hosted by: J Smiles
Producer: MiaHallTV
Editor: AnneliseTV

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

What if you suddenly found yourself in a role you never imagined, caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's? Join me as I share my unexpected journey from an accomplished career in engineering, law, and activism to becoming a full-time caregiver for my mother, Zetty. Despite my professional background, caregiving was never part of my life plan.

Through humor and raw honesty, I share the emotional and physical weight of this unplanned responsibility, debunking the myth that caregiving is a natural fit for  me. In this heartfelt episode, I reflect on the shifts in my life following Zetty's Alzheimer's diagnosis. From her love of travel and social justice to my own dreams of living abroad and an interrupted proposal, my story underscores how caregiving profoundly alters life plans.

I explore the concept of choice, showing how embracing caregiving as a conscious decision can help mitigate regret and confusion.

Join Patreon community: Patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
Where fellow caregivers can find exclusive content and support. 

#CaregivingJourney 
#AlzheimersAwareness
#EndALZ
#CareerTransition
#CaregivngComedy
#CaregivingChallenges 
#FamilyCaregiver 
#CaregivingLife 
#CaregiverReflection 
 

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Have you ever felt the frustration of juggling caregiving with everyday life hassles? Well, you're not alone. Today, we hear the life-changing story of family caregiver, Sheri Atwood, who turned daily annoyances into an innovative creation. I share my deeply personal experience of caring for my mother with Alzheimer's, shedding light on the urgency of early detection and the complex world of family dynamics. Sheri joins us to offer her heartfelt story about managing caregiving, indifferent siblings, and her business, SupportPay.

Are you curious about how to navigate the financial maze of caregiving? We've got you covered. In our discussion on managing caregiving finances, Sheri introduces SupportPay—a game-changing app initially developed for divorced parents but now catering to the broader caregiving community. By consolidating financial tasks and communications into one seamless platform, SupportPay relieves the administrative burden, allowing caregivers to focus on what truly matters: providing emotional support and care. We dive into the app's features, user experiences, and practical benefits that can make a real difference in your caregiving journey.

Don’t miss out on more updates from the J Smile Studios Patreon!  You can get exclusive access to behind-the-scenes insights and live broadcasts. Join our community and transform your caregiving experience with us.

Visit supportpay.com for more information about the app.

Host: J Smiles
Producer: Mia Hall
Editor: Annelise Udoye

#Caregiving
#FamilyCaregiver
#AlzheimersAwareness
#CaregiverSupport
#SupportPay
#FamilyDynamics
#InnovativeSolutions
#CaregiverStories
#CaregivingCommunity
#CaregivingApp

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review! 

Ever wondered how a professional caregiver navigates all of the emotional and psychological strains while maintaining a balance? Join me as I connect with Dr. Mitch, an esteemed neuropsychologist and fellow caregiver. In this episode, we shed light on the critical role of neuropsychologists in diagnosing and treating brain disorders. We also delve into the emotional roller-coaster of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's, and how humor and community support can become lifelines.

Dr. Mitch opens up about his dual journey as a neuropsychologist and a son watching his mother grapple with dementia, offering an insider's perspective on the distinctions between clinical psychology and neuropsychology. We discuss the ironies and challenges he faced in his professional and personal life, while highlighting insights from his illuminating book, "Dementia Prevention: Using Your Head to Save Your Brain". This discussion aims to demystify the topic of dementia, providing practical strategies for prevention and a fresh outlook on cognitive health.

Our conversation takes a deeper dive into the signs of dementia and the complexities of normal aging. For those passionate about brain health, this episode offers a blend of heartfelt stories, professional advice, and a touch of humor to help navigate the challenging landscape of aging and dementia. Tune in to discover how small, consistent changes can make a big difference in maintaining cognitive health and preventing dementia.

#CaregivingJourney
#Neuropsychology
#DementiaAwareness
#AlzheimersCare
#BrainHealth
#CaregiverSupport
#ClinicalPsychology
#HumorInCaregiving
#EndAlz
#PreventDementia

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingup
TEXT  'PODCAST"  to  +1 404 737 1449  - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review!